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SINTEF Technology and Society will be integrated into other SINTEF institutes from 1 July 2018.

We re-organise the research activities to achieve closer integration of social science and technology research, as well as strengthening research areas such as, health, transport, technology management, safety and security, digital transformation and working life.

Smart protective solutions for industrial safety and productivity in the cold

Smart protective solutions for industrial safety and productivity in the cold

Working in cold climates involves various effects on work, health and performance. The degree of cold exposure is essential for the severity and risks associated with the exposure. Cold environment disturbs not only the machinery of industrial processes and vehicles, but is also very crucial factor to reduce worker's comfort, performance and safety.

Sensor prototype. Ill.: SINTEF

Indication of critical level of cold

A prototype protective jacket with the integrated wireless sensor system will be adjusted and tested in realistic harsh conditions, and algorithms will be developed to correlate the sensors in the prototype with critical limits for cold exposure.

Smart protection of hands in the cold

Peripheral body parts like hands are the first to cool when humans are exposed to cold. Cold protective handwear decrease manual performance especially in tasks where good tactile sensitivity and finger dexterity are needed. We will develop novel gloves which have new design and optimal thermal insulation supported by auxiliary smart heating system, and which could maintain maximal manual performancy although worn on.